What Foods are Toxic to Dogs?

Dogs love food, especially human food, but did you know that many common foods we eat are actually toxic to our pet dogs? 

Foods that are toxic to dogs include:

Chocolate

Theobromide is a chemical found in chocolate and cocoa and this chemical can affect the heart, kidneys, lungs and nervous system. The most toxic type of chocolate is baking chocolate, whereas milk chocolate has to be eaten in a higher quantity to cause damage. Never allow your dog to eat chocolate made for humans. Instead, you can purchase safe chocolate flavoured treats from the pet shop.

Caffeine and Alcohol

Caffeine is similar to the toxic chemical found in chocolate. It can also damage the heart, kidney, lungs and nervous system. Alcohol contains ethanol, a toxic chemical that causes damage to the nervous system and respiratory system. Uncooked yeast also produces ethanol and should be avoided.

Onions

Onions can cause a form of hemolytic anemia called Heinz body anaemia resulting in the damage to red blood cells and even kidney damage. Toxicity can also occur from foods related to onions such as chives and garlic. Poisoning can result whether the onion is cooked or raw and the effects can be cumulative. Avoid feeding any foods cooked with onions.

Macadamia Nuts

Eating just a few macadamia nuts can cause severe illness in dogs. The toxin is not well understood and neither is the mechanism of toxicity.

Grapes, Raisins and Fruit Seeds

Grapes and raisins, while enjoyed by people, can cause irreversible kidney damage and may result in death. Eating just a few grapes or raisins can poison a 10kg dog, however the exact toxic dose has not been ascertained.

Not many people are aware that the seeds contained in some fruits can be toxic. This is because they contain the toxin cyanide. Fruit seeds to avoid include apple, cherry, plum and peach seeds.